What is the Pelvic floor?
The “Pelvic floor” is a group of muscles found in the pelvis. It is sometimes described as being like a hammock attaching the pubic symphysis, the boney bit at the front of the pelvis, and your coccyx (tail bone).
The pelvic muscles support the bladder, bowel, and uterus. When they contract, the organs are lifted and the openings to the vagina, anus, and urethra are tightened. When the muscles are relaxed, urine and faeces can be released from the body. Pelvic floor muscles also play an important role in sexual function.
A dysfunctional pelvic floor can result in:
Incontinence
Uncontrolled passing wind
Painful sex
Pelvic floor exercises, exercises that specifically contract and relax the pelvic floor, can help with these conditions as well as in the conservative management of pelvic organ prolapse.
The pelvic floor is a crucial component in the muscle system known as “The Core”. It co-ordinates with the diaphragm, abdominals and back muscles, as well as the deep stabilisers of the hips.
As a result the pelvic floor can affect multiple other areas of the body including:
Back
Hip
Sacro-iliac joint (SIJ)
Pelvic control eg running injuries
Breathing dysfunction
Postural issues
Feet eg, plantar fasciitis
even Neck!
So you can see that a dysfunctional pelvic floor can be much more than “oops moments”.
What does a pelvic floor assessment involve?
A pelvic floor assessment manually tests for the accuracy, strength and endurance of the muscles. It is performed by inserting a finger (or fingers) into the vaginal cavity. Pelvic floor muscle contraction can then be felt and the therapist is looking for both a squeeze and lift. You will be instructed on performing a number of contractions, both longer holds as well as quicker ones. In all the examination lasts about 15 minutes. Then, depending on the results, an appropriate exercise program including pelvic floor contractions and Pilates-based exercises, will be formulated specifically for you.
You are welcome to request a chaperone to attend, this is another staff member so please give us notice so that we can arrange in advance.